HOUSTON: Former Pakistani captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has given insight into the bond between Pakistani and Indian cricketers amid a deadlock between the cricket boards of both countries over the Asia Cup venue.
Sarfaraz told the media at a meet-and-greet event in Houston, Texas, that the connection between Indian and Pakistani players has always been positive. He said that they used to play each other frequently in the past, which enhanced the players’ relationships.
Tense Relations vs Pak-India Cricketers
Due to tensions between both countries, India has not toured Pakistan since 2008 and plans to do so again during the future regional cricket event, Asia Cup 2023. The archrivals last played a bilateral series in 2012, when Pakistan toured India for limited-overs matches. In recent years, the two countries have only met at ICC and ACC events.
Sarfaraz was also hopeful that Pakistan would win the trophy again in a huge event ahead of the 2023 World Cup in India. He said winning the Champions Trophy in 2017 was a memorable experience for all of the players. He also hoped that they would be able to win another major tournament in the near future.
Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Moin Khan and Indian great MS Dhoni were also lauded by the right-hander. He said that when he first started playing cricket, Moin Khan was his role model. He said MS Dhoni is now an inspiration to many cricketers all around the world. He also discussed the most memorable moments of his career so far.
He said that winning the U19 World Cup and the Champions Trophy is one of the most memorable moments of his career. Sarfaraz is one of Pakistan’s most successful captains, playing from 2016 to 2019. Pakistan won its first Champions Trophy under his captaincy in 2017. He also led Pakistan to 11 consecutive T20I series wins.
